Top 5 Trails of the Kāpiti Coast
Visting Kāpiti soon? Whether you’re looking for idyllic strolls through the bush, walks with a fresh sea breeze, or hikes that will push your limits, the great outdoors of the Kāpiti Coast awaits.
Coast35
One of the best things about walking is that it’s an activity almost everyone can enjoy. The newly completed Coast35 trail is 35km of wide, easy-grade, off-road track that stretches all the way from Paekākāriki to Ōtaki.
Cyclists, horse riders, and families with dogs all happily share the path together. You’ll hear a friendly ring of a bell or a ‘passing on your right!’ as people signal they’re close by. South of Peka Peka, the path is sealed, which means wheelchair users and parents with buggies can also join in on the fun.
No matter your age or ability, you set your own pace on this relaxed trail.
Waikanae River
The Waikanae River trail blossoms in the hotter months. As you walk along the winding gravel path by the riverside, you can expect to see locals gleefully jumping in the river at one of the popular natural swimming holes, or fishing for whitebait in the cool shade under a willow tree. The magical swamp forest can be walked or cycled in a full loop or in shorter loops.
On foot, the full walk lasts a few hours. Begin at Otaihanga Domain on Makora Road, heading upstream along the south bank, or if you want to experience the lagoons, cross the suspension bridge and head towards the shining sea.
Paekākāriki Escarpment
This track is for the adventurous! A 10km walk that takes you 220 metres above sea level, the legendary Paekākāriki Escarpment is not for the faint-hearted. On the narrow coastal path, you’ll have to navigate over 400 steep steps, plus two dramatic suspension bridges. It demands endurance and a good level of fitness, so take your time and make plenty of stops.
Admire the historic sights — like the remnants of an old kainga (Maori village) — and soak in the unparalleled views across the sea to Kapiti Island. When you reach the end, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of achievement.
Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve
Standing at the main entrance on Tui Street, a quiet suburban road, the lush green slopes of the Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve rise before you. It’s one of the last remaining areas of Kohekohe forest in Aotearoa.
The park offers various tracks, including the 35-minute Kohekohe trail, 1-2 hours Parata track, and the full loop, the Te Au track, which takes you between 2-4 hours. As you enter the bush, you’ll find the tracks steep, but not too demanding. The canopy above is home to talkative birds and keeps you cool as you begin to work up a sweat. When you finally emerge at the top of the hill and catch your breath, the beautiful vistas of the Kāpiti Coast make the hike totally worth it.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is a huge swathe of natural dunes and wild nature bordering the beach between Paekākāriki and Foxton. There are well sign-posted trails, cycling, horse riding and swimming, plus plenty of amenities like toilets, picnic benches, and even a historic tram (great for the kids!).
The park features three main trails. The 40-minute Inland track is epic for mountain bike rides as it winds through rolling sand dunes. If you want some shade, the gentle Wetland walk guides you across bush, forest and wetlands. Lastly, breathe in the fresh sea air and stop for a swim on the Coastal track next to Whareroa Beach.
Whatever you do in this big, beautiful, green park, you’ll leave calm and rejuvenated.
